Discussion Guide

THE GREATEST GAME EVER PLAYED
Synopsis
An amateur player from a working class family, Francis Ouimet shocked the golf world
when at the 1913 U.S. Open, flanked by his 10-year-old caddie, he defeated his idol,
the defending British champion Harry Vardon. An unlikely match-up – “the ingénue
versus the seasoned champ” – theirs was the greatest match the sport had ever
known.
Discussion Questions
•D
id this film shed light on a particular aspect of the history of golf with which you were not
familiar? How has the game of golf changed over the past 100+ years? How has it remained the
same?
•F
rancis Ouimet is introduced to golf, but he doesn’t have anyone in his family that truly fosters
his interest in the sport. When were you first introduced to golf, or another sport you love? Who
engaged your interest in the sport?
• If Ouimet had had the support of his father in his pursuit of the game, do believe Ouimet’s career
would have played out any differently? Why?
•E
ven though golf is not necessarily a team sport, how does teamwork come into play on the green?
•V
ardon fools his opponents into using the wrong club on certain holes, convincing them to do
the same, as some will look to him to successfully play
the course. Discuss the importance of trusting your own
intuition and playing your own game.
• At one point, Ouimet’s caddy Eddie starts to update Ouimet
on the other player’s scores. Ouimet stops him, letting Eddie
know that he doesn’t want to hear how anyone else is playing
because he’s playing his own game. Is it easier to focus on
yourself when you don’t compare yourself to others? Why?
• What are some other sports where you can play against
yourself as much as against others?
Movie images © 2005 Walt Disney/Buena Vista
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THE GREATEST GAME EVER PLAYED
Activities
•T
he film is based on the book The Greatest Game Ever Played: Harry Vardon, Francis Ouimet, and
the Birth of Modern Golf by Mark Frost. If this movie opened your eyes to a history that you would
like to further explore, take the time to read the book upon which this film was based.
• Play a game of golf for fun. Whether a full 18 holes or simply a game of put put with your family,
engage with others in this unique sport and its long history.
Take Action
•T
here are innumerous ways to raise funds for causes close to your heart, but golf tournaments are
one way in particular to raise awareness and funds for your organization. If an organization you
are involved in hosts a golf tournament, offer your services as a volunteer or participate as a team,
even if you aren’t a regular on the links. You’ll contribute to a good cause as well as spend a day
playing a game rich in history.
• Golf, like any other sport, costs money, which
can prevent aspiring athletes from playing and
pursuing his or her dream. Do what you can to
support aspiring athletes by holding a sporting
equipment drive and getting the necessary
equipment into the hands of deserving young
people.
Movie images © 2005 Walt Disney/Buena Vista
Find out what other people are saying about this
film and discover how they are using the guide!
Join the conversation at TrulyMovingPictures.org.